Expansion joints are important in the construction industry as they allow structures to move without breaking or cracking. They can be made of different materials to offer the best levels of protection.
Rubber is a good choice for expansion joints because it can resist thermal expansion and contraction more than other materials, according to Walker Engineering. It is also a durable material that can help to reduce vibrations in construction projects.
Stainless steel is another great option for expansion joints, as it can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. It can also be molded to meet specific requirements.
Metal bellows are also used in expansion joints, as they can withstand extreme pressures and are easy to repair. However, it is important to choose the right type of bellows for your application.
Thick wall bellows are constructed from thick plys to withstand high-pressure and temperature demands in furnace and heat exchanger pipe work. They are typically available in circular, oval and rectangular shapes.
Externally pressurized expansion joints use a pressure chamber to push line pressure outside the bellows, allowing greater axial movements than internal-pressure-balanced bellows. This configuration is ideal for applications that involve large axial movements and standing media.
Axially and lateral pressure-balanced expansion joints can accommodate axial movements of a pipe system, even when anchoring the pipe system is not possible or unfeasible. They are a good option when piping systems are coupled with turbines or other equipment that cannot handle pressure thrust loads, and they can be a cost-effective solution for regulating thermal expansion of the pipe system.
These joints can be hinged, tied-universal, gimbal or in-line pressure balanced and are ideal for applications with harsh operating conditions, such as those found in power plants. They can be manufactured with a refractory lining, which lowers the pipe wall’s temperature and protects it from molten metal splashes.
They can be installed using bolts or welded to the end of the pipe and secured with a special seal. They can also be anchored to the floor and ceiling through a series of neoprene pads that are attached to the base plate.
In addition, they can be fabricated from aluminum alloys that are resistant to corrosion and rust. These are often used in industrial environments, such as power plants and petrochemical facilities.
During manufacturing, bellows are formed and cold worked to the desired geometry established by the design engineer. This process ensures that they can withstand a variety of pressure and temperature conditions, and is essential for providing adequate performance characteristics.
The metal bellows are then welded to the other components of the junction. This process is known as roll seam welding.
It is crucial to find a quality manufacturer of expansion joints. This will ensure that the joint will perform as expected and last as long as possible.
It is also a good idea to have a professional inspection on the expansion joints on a regular basis, as they can be subject to damage from wear and tear. This will prevent costly problems down the road.